The anatomy of the Pinoy zombie, according to director Carlo Ledesma

"Why are the zombies still talking?" and other burning questions about Netflix Philippines' "Outside" are finally answered by director Carlo Ledesma.

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Why are the zombies still talking?" and other burning questions about Netflix Philippines' "Outside" are finally answered by director Carlo Ledesma.

How did the movie create a unique identity for the Pinoy zombie - one that both pays homage to the genre's global roots while at the same time incorporating fresh elements that reflect cultural context?

In an interview with The STAR, the Filipino-Australian filmmaker broke down inspirations and motivations behind how he reimagined zombies - or the "dead ones," as he put it - in his psychological thriller about a family fighting for survival during a violent outbreak.

"Outside" doesn't over-explain the origins of its zombies. But the director gave an easter egg for those paying close attention, particularly to the scene where Sid's character, Francis, tested the water that originated from the deep well.

Direk Carlo admitted that it was a subtle hint that the cause of the zombie outbreak could be waterborne.

"Maybe in future films we can explain the origin," he told this writer, adding that he's leaving it up to the audience to decide.

"What is important for me is for the audience to realize, wait a minute, why are they talking or why are they saying words?"

In the film, there were "dead ones" repeatedly saying sorry or mouthing off church prayers. It turns out these were the last words or last fragments of their memories while tragically fighting off the infection.